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Missouri among worst states for women’s overall health, reproductive care, study findsby Anna Spoerre, Missouri Independent Missouri women have more limited access to health care and worse outcomes than any other state in the Midwest, a new study of the nation’s health care system found. Missouri ranks 40th out of 51 states plus the District of Columbia on the 2024 state scorecard on women’s health and reproductive care, published by the Commonwealth Fund, a private foundation focused on health care issues. The study assessed and compared 32 pieces of information derived primarily from public data sources in 2022, which was after most of the major effects of COVID had been felt, but before most abortion bans had really started to impact data findings, the creators of the scorecard said. Missouri continues to see maternal and infant mortality rates, breast and cervical cancer death rates, preterm births, congenital syphilis and depression leading up to or during pregnancy at rates that are higher than the national average. There are more women in Missouri between the ages of 18 and 44 reporting they hadn’t seen a doctor in the past year because of the cost than all but 10 other states. “One thing is absolutely clear,” Joe Betancourt, president of the Commonwealth Fund, told reporters when the study was published last week. “Women’s Health in the U.S. is in a very fragile state.” Missouri ranked among the states with the lowest low-risk c-section rates, postpartum depression and up-to-date pneumonia vaccines for post-menopausal women. But it fared among the worst nationally for breast and cervical cancer deaths, up-to-date pap smears, and mental health among women ages 18 to 64. It also ranked poorly when analyzing access to abortion clinics. Nearly every abortion became illegal in Missouri in 2022. A citizen-led ballot measure is hoping to enshrine abortion rights in the Missouri constitution. “We are seeing a deep and likely growing geographic divide in U.S. women’s ability to access vital health services and maintain their health,” said Sara Collins, a co-author on the Commonwealth Fund study. “Particularly among women of reproductive age.” Ashley Kuykendall, director of service delivery for the Missouri Family Health Council Inc., a nonprofit working to strengthen health care access across the state, said one of the most stark findings of the report was the combination of lack of access to wraparound care paired with poor health outcomes. But solutions exist, she said. One such solution:a women’s health omnibus bill that failed to pass in the statehouse this year despite widespread bipartisan support, that would have expanded birth control coverage, increased congenital syphilis testing and eased access to mammograms and STI testing. “The state legislature has an incredible power and responsibility to support better care for people across the reproductive health spectrum,” Kuykendall said. “Especially, as this report highlights, for folks who are pregnant or postpartum.”
Health and reproductive care outcomes
Missouri ranked 43 of 51 for this category, which includes maternal and infant mortality and physical and mental health issues. Some data was analyzed using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System. Missouri is among 33 states who participate in this federal program. Of those states, Missouri had the highest percentage of women who recently gave birth and reported experiencing intimate partner violence before, during or after their pregnancy. Missouri has some of the highest pregnancy-associated maternal mortality rates in the United States, which already ranks worst among countries of similar economies for high maternal deaths. In Missouri between 2018 and 2020,women on Medicaid were 10 times more likely to die within a year of pregnancy than women on private insurance, according to a 2023 report from the state’s Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review. Black mothers were three times more likely to die within a year of pregnancy than white mothers. Of the 210 pregnancy-related deaths over those three years in Missouri, the majority were deemed preventable. Mental health conditions were the leading underlying cause of death, including due to suicide and substance use. The latest study found Missouri had one of the highest percentages of women between the ages of 18 and 64 who reported poor mental health, landing 48 of 51.
Coverage, access and affordability
Missouri ranked slightly better — 39 of 51 — in this category, which includes insurance coverage and health care affordability and access. Of the 33 states that provided data around health insurance coverage, Missouri ranked third-worst for women uninsured the month before becoming pregnant, and sixth-worst for women who didn’t have health insurance during a recent pregnancy. This is despite Missouri legislators’ decision to expand postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to a year in 2023. A better-funded, better-staffed and more accessible public health safety net is also critical, said Kuykendall. This summer, Gov. Mike Parson signed into law a bill ending Medicaid reimbursements to Planned Parenthood, including for patients who go to the clinic for preventive exams, family planning and STI testing. Those opposed to the bill warned such a law would strain the state’s already fragile public health safety net. “The need for these services far outweighs the current capacity for the safety net to provide them,” Kuykendall said. “Any funding cuts to those providers not only limits patients’ ability to access care, but also puts further strain on the health care workforce and will undoubtedly worsen these outcomes.” Recent surveying by the health care nonprofit found that wait times across the state’s overburdened safety net clinics averaged between five and seven weeks. These 68 clinics receive Title X funding and do not turn anyone away, regardless of their ability to pay. The study found that approximately 5.6 million women across the country live in counties that are considered maternity care deserts. In Missouri, 41% of counties are designated maternity care deserts, meaning there are no maternity care providers or birthing facilities. Missouri’s rate is higher than the national rate of 32%, according to a separate 2023 report from the March of Dimes. Across the state, 10% of women do not live within 30 minutes of a birthing hospital. In the last decade, 19 hospitals across Missouri have closed, according to the Missouri Hospital Association. “There is an issue of access that’s very real,” Kuykendall said. The authors of the study were also deliberate in considering outcomes in states with abortion bans and restrictions. “There’s concern that abortion bans or limits will further reduce the number of providers offering maternity care owing to increased risk of legal action that provider’s face,” said David Radley, a senior scientist with the Commonwealth Fund. “Especially when states’ laws are ambiguous.” A recent study showed states with abortion bans saw a significant decrease in the number of medical residents applying to be in their OB-GYN programs.
Missouri saw a 25% drop in applicants since 2022, the highest drop in the nation second only to Arizona. “These inequities are long standing, no doubt, but recent policy choices and judicial decisions restricting access to reproductive care have and may continue to exacerbate them, Commonwealth Fund president Betancourt said of the study’s findings when related to states with abortion bans. “It also serves as a glaring reminder that where you live matters to your health and health care.”
Health care quality and prevention
Missouri landed in slot 35 of 51 for this category, which includes c-section rates, preventative care, pre and post-partum care and mental health screenings. In better news, Missouri ranked 15 of 51 among states with the lowest rates of c-sections during low-risk births, which Kuykendall attributed in part to the state health department’sincreased focus on doula programs. Missouri was slightly below the national average for the percentage of women eligible for mammograms who underwent the breast cancer screening in the past two years (75%), and the percentage of women ages 21 through 65 who had a pap smear, which screens for cervical cancer, in the past three years (78%). Among the more concerning data points to Kuykendall was a report that 19% of women between the ages of 18 and 44 in the past 12 months had put off seeing a doctor because of the cost. This data resonates with what she hears often from Missourians, who say it can be difficult to access even the most basic health care for reasons including cost, lack of transportation and lack of options. “It was a positive step that Missouri expanded Medicaid,” Kuykendall said, “And I think we have a long way to go in terms of ensuring everyone who should have access to care in that new environment actually does.” Missouri Independent is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Missouri Independent maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jason Hancock for questions: [email protected]. Follow Missouri Independent on Facebook and X.
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The following information is derived from Grain Valley Police Department daily calls service log for the week of July 17-23, 2024.
July 17, 2024 400 BLK CROSS CREEK DR Suspicious Vehicle PHQ Public Service 1400 BLK NW EAGLES PKWY Security Check MAIN ST/WALNUT Pedestrian Check MAIN ST/BROADWAY Suspicious Person 1300 BLK NW PERSIMMON DR Parking Complaint/Viol 1500 BLK NE ERIN CT Parking Complaint/Viol MAIN / 70 Motorist Assist 600 BLK SW GATEWAY DR Trespass 1200 BLK DAKOTA STAR CT Parking Complaint/Viol 1100 BLK NE MCQUERRY RD Follow Up Investigation 31000 BLK NE PINK HILL RD Administrative AARON LN / BROADWAY Suspicious Person 500 BLK NW GREGG ST Follow Up Investigation 1100 BLK NW BUSH DR Extra Patrol R D MIZE RD / MEADOW Motorist Assist 1100 BLK NW HILLTOP LN Reposession 1000 BLK HILLTOP LN Citizen Contact JEFFERSON/W OF BB Area Check 900 BLK NW HICKORYWOOD DR Sound of Shots July 18, 2024 1400 BLK NW EAGLES PKWY Security Check SNI-A-BAR ROUND ABOUT Area Check 100 BLK SE AA HWY Stealing Vehicle 1100 BLK NE MCQUERRY RD Parking Complaint/Viol WB70 / JP EXIT Area Check 100 BLK E US OLD 40 HWY Follow Up Investigation 600 BLK NW YENNIE AVE UNIT 215 Disturbance-Verbal 100 BLK SUNNY LN Follow Up Investigation 800 BLK NW GREEN DR Standby to Prevent 200 BLK NW ROYERS LN Citizen Contact PHQ Walk In Report PHQ Public Service 2600 BLK BEACH DR Warrant Attempt July 19, 2024 507 SE CHELSEY LN Citizen Contact VALLEY RIDGE/JEFFERSON Sound of Shots ASPEN / HILLTOP Suspicious Vehicle PHQ Walk In Report PHQ Public Service 1100 BLK NW CHRISMAN FARM RD Stealing Vehicle PHQ Public Service 200 BLK SW EAGLES PKWY Stealing Under $750 400 BLK COLDWATER CREEK Vehicle Check PHQ Walk In Report 200 BLK SW EAGLES PKWY Property Damage 100 BLK BROADWAY ST Citizen Contact PHQ Public Service PHQ Walk In Report PHQ Public Service 1100 BLK S BUCKNER TARSNEY RD Citizen Assist 700 BLK N MAIN ST Assault 400 BLK S OSAGE ST Citizen Contact July 20, 2024 PHQ Public Service 5900 BLK S MINTER RD Sound of Shots 1100 BLK BUSH DR Extra Patrol 900 BLK SHORTHORN DR Citizen Contact 400 BLK FOOT HILL DR Noise PHQ Public Service PHQ Citizen Contact 1200 BLK SW STOCKMAN CT Agency Assist EMS PHQ Citizen Contact 100 BLK S MAIN (BUCKNER TARSNEY) Trespass 700 LK N MAIN ST Disturbance-Verbal 200 BLK NW JEFFERSON Warrant Attempt 1100 BLK NW HILLTOP LN Harrassment 200 BLK NW JEFFERSON ST Warrant Attempt S BUCKNER TARSNEY RD / SW RYAN RD Fireworks 700 BLK SW HARVEST CIR Area Check 100 BLK N MAIN ST Stealing Vehicle 300 BLK NW YENNIE ST Citizen Contact 1300 BLK NW WILLOW DR Noise EB 70 / SB BB Area Check 500 BLK N MAIN ST Pedestrian Check July 21, 2024 PHQ Walk In Report 1000 BLK SW CROSS CREEK DR Residence Check; Agency Assist DFS 600 BLK NW YENNIE AVE Area Check 1100 BLK BUSH DR Extra Patrol 900 BLK SW SHORTHORN DR Suspicious Person 900 BLK SW SHORTHORN DR Follow Up Investigation WESTBOUND SNI A BAR FROM RD MIZE Area Check 100 BLK SUNNY LN Trespass PHQ Public Service PHQ Public Service 1200 BLK DAKOTA STAR CT Parking Complaint/Viol PHQ Walk In Report PHQ Public Service PHQ Walk In Report 200 BLK N CYPRESS ST Parking Complaint/Viol 700 BLK SW MEADOWOOD DR Animal Control 700 BLK SW TISHA LN Open Door-Structure 400 BLK CROSS CREEK DR Suspicious Vehicle 1100 BLK SW EPHRAIM DR Disturbance-Physical GRAIN VALLEY CEMETERY Suspicious Vehicle 1200 BLK NW ASHLEY DR Reposession July 22, 2024 300 BLK NW WOODBURY DR Noise 1100 BLK NW BUSH DR Extra Patrol 100 BLK 3RD ST Alarm-Commerical BB/MCQUERRY Crash Non-Injury 40 AND OOIDA Motorist Assist 300 BLK NW JEFFERSON ST Citizen Contact 1400 BLK NW BROADWAY Abandoned Vehicle 1300 BLK BROADWAY Parking Complaint/Viol 100 BLK N MAIN ST Citizen Contact PHQ Walk In Report 100 BLK CROSS CREEK DR Disturbance-Physical 1200 BLK NW COTTONWOOD CT Dead Body 1000 BLK SW CROSS CREEK DR Check Well Being NE TUDOR RD Prisoner Transport PHQ Public Service 1400 BLK GOLFVIEW DR Alarm-Commerical July 23, 2024 1200 BLK WILLOW DR Warrant Attempt 900 BLK NW CRESTWOOD DR Noise 700 BLK N MAIN ST Follow Up Investigation 1100 BLK NW BUSH DR suite A Alarm-Commerical 1300 BLK BROADWAY Parking Complaint/Viol 1400 BLK NW EAGLE RIDGE DR Agency Assist LE 100 BLK E MCQUERRY RD Area Check PHQ Public Service 1000 BLK NE DEER CREEK RD Standby to Prevent 1200 BLK NW LINDENWOOD DR Disturbance-Verbal PHQ Walk In Report PHQ Public Service 500 BLK GREGG ST Alarm-Commerical 200 BLK NW JEFFERSON Warrant Attempt 800 BLK SW MONTANA RIDGE DR Agency Assist EMS PHQ Public Service 900 BLK NW EAGLE RIDGE DR Disturbance-Physical 1000 BLK SW CROSS CREEK DR Warrant Arrest 600 BLK NW WALNUT ST Check Well Being 600 BLK SW SHORTHORN RD Parking Complaint/Viol 100 BLK SUNNY LN Disturbance-Verbal WB 70/WB BB Agency Assist LE Additional calls for service: Suicidal subject: 3 Order of protection: 1 by Michael Smith Late spring and this summer, athletes at Grain Valley High School got to enjoy some of the benefits of a $32 million bond issue voter approved on April 4, 2023. The bond issue, which primarily aimed to fund the high school gymnasium and fieldhouse addition, included an addition of a new weight room and turf field for the baseball and softball teams to use, both of which have been completed and used this year. The additions have created buzz among the students and coaches as they have enjoyed using both facilities. The new weight room, on the southwest side of the school, will affect all 20 sports programs for the high school. It has two brand new weight racks and new weights athletes can use to improve their strength and conditioning. The equipment came from some of the best companies for designing weightlifting equipment like Sorinex and Intek. There are also spots where students can use jammer arms and have areas to work on medicine ball exercises along with some plyometric boxes used for step up and jumping exercises. “It’s state of the art,” Grain Valley head football coach David Allie said of the new weight room. “The district made a huge investment in the Grain Valley athletes and it’s going to help improve athletic performances. There is nothing we can’t do in that room.” “When the weight room opened, it was like Christmas in May for the kids. The first couple of weeks were awe inspiring. The kids were excited to just look at it. We now have one of the best weight rooms not only in the metro, but possibly the state.” Head softball coach Flip Courter shared the same excitement for the weight room as Allie. “It’s definitely a step up from what we had and it’s a much more organized space,” Courter said. “All the equipment is top notch. The admin and everyone involved in putting this together spared no expense. The things we are able to do in this weight room we would have never been able to do in our old weight room.” All of the new equipment allows each individual athletic program to tailor the workouts based on what will benefit the athletes for their specific sport. “It’s probably the most used room in the entire school district,” Grain Valley activities director Brandon Hart said. “If you don’t have a strong conditioning program, then your athletics are going to suffer. We’ve built a program to meet the diverse needs of each individual. There are attachments to the racks that will allow kids to customize their workouts to be tailored to the sport they are participating in.” As for the turf field, the baseball team broke it in during a jamboree against Lee’s Summit West and Truman on March 9. The new field, which will be used for both the baseball and softball teams, is beneficial for coaches and players as it requires a minimum amount of maintenance and will prevent it from being unplayable after rain or thunderstorms. The dimensions are 305 feet to right field, 375 to center and 300 to left. For softball games, the school has fencing panels the team can use to shorten the distance needed for a hitter to earn a home run. When both teams had their old grass fields, it was difficult to play games after rain. “On the old field, you could find crawdads in the outfield,” Hart said. “Our outfields were probably one of the worst in the city prior to this renovation. “The turf field has been a game changer for our programs. You can play on turf 365 days a year.” Courter agreed. “We had one of the lower end softball facilities in the Suburban Conference and possibly in the entire (Kansas City) metro and now we have one of the best,” Courter said. “I got a message from a mom that said her daughter was excited to get out there on the new field.” “We can now practice after it has been raining.” Courter said it will be an adjustment for some of his players to go from playing on a dirt infield and grass outfield, to a full turf field, but the change for him and his players has been a big positive. The addition of the new field likely will make Grain Valley High School one of the primary options to host a future district tournament. “The field is going to be a little more bouncy than they are used to,” Courter said. “A lot of these girls play year-round and have familiarity with playing on turf. We play quite a few teams that are already on turf.” “We will work on keeping our throws low and let the turf help get the ball where it needs to go.” In addition to the turf field, there is a facility next to it that Courter has dubbed “The Barn.” It is an outhouse that is equipped with two full size batting cages, a turf area and lockers. It will be used when there is inclement weather outside. Courter said his team can field ground balls, take batting practice and participate in bullpen sessions in The Barn. The leftover turf from the field was used for The Barn. It will function as a locker room and clubhouse,” Courter said. “I talked to other coaches and they are jealous of the new field and they are really jealous of the new facility.” “We couldn’t have done this without the support of the community. There is going to be a huge percentage of the student population that is going to use at least one of these new facilities.” Freshman Ellarae Hay fields a ground ball on the new turf field. Photo credit: Michael Smith Senior Izzy Salsman uses the new weight equipment during her routine. Photo credit: Michael Smith Grain Valley sophomore Molly Jones leaps on top of a plyometric box in the new high school weight room. Photo credit: Michael Smith
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by Addie Rainbolt, Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce Marketing Intern Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is an American Family Insurance agency in Grain Valley. Alyssa Scholl, agency owner, said American Family Insurance provides auto, home, business, health, and life insurance, so essentially “anything you need to protect.” Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is licensed in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Ohio, Scholl said, and has been open for three years. While Scholl was originally located in Independence, she said, “I wanted to move into a community that was growing and booming, and Grain Valley was the place to be.” Scholl said she grew up in Blue Springs and has enjoyed watching Grain Valley grow and prosper. Now that she is located in the heart of Grain Valley, Scholl said she has gotten to experience this growth firsthand. When deciding to move to Grain Valley, Scholl said she believed she “could leave a bigger impact in a smaller community” because small towns do not typically have very many local resources. Scholl hoped to become one of these local resources. Scholl said the biggest goal of moving Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC to Grain Valley was to get involved in the community. Scholl said Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is unique from other insurance providers because they have a small staff. A smaller staff allows Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC to be more personable with customers and involved in the community. Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC strives to provide excellent customer service, so each customer feels valued, Scholl said. “We’re not just an 1-800 number,” Scholl said; customers “are more than welcome to come in, we can go out to them, we’ll take phone calls,” or whatever is required to make them feel valued. “Because we are so small,” Scholl said, “we do know a lot of our customers” outside of the office setting. Moreover, Scholl said, “They know us, they know our life stories.” Getting to provide them with insurance simply allows Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC staff to further their friendships with customers and fellow community members. People are more than customers, Scholl said, “they are somebody that matters to us.” “I’ve always been one to help people in times of need and typically when people are calling us for insurance reasons, it’s not always a pleasant phone call,” Scholl said. So, Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC wants to be the calm in the storm for those customers. According to Scholl, most people do not typically think about their insurance until they need it; however, “when those catastrophes do strike, customers want to know that we’re here for them.” Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC. being local “gives people a sense of peace,” Scholl claimed. “We want to be sure we can provide that to customers when they do have something happen.” Additionally, because community involvement was Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC’s driving force of moving to Grain Valley, Scholl said they are intentional about their activity. Their recent community involvement includes sponsoring First Fridays, the Grain Valley Fair, and supporting activities at Grain Valley High School. Ultimately, Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is “really big on giving back” and “helping out,” Scholl said. Alyssa K Scholl Agency, LLC is located at 115 SW Eagles Pkwy. Its operating hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Website: https://www.amfam.com/agents/missouri/grain-valley/alyssa-scholl Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssaschollAMFAM by Michael Smith Grain Valley graduate Avery Garmon remembers how stressful his freshman season was at Rockhurst University. He admitted when he came on to the team, he was pressing to try and prove himself. At first, playing Division II baseball was a struggle. Fast forward one year later, Garmon has found his confidence and has been one of the strongest hitters not only the Hawks; he’s been a standout for his Ban Johnson summer league team – Building Champions. For Rockhurst, Garmon started in 26 games and played in 40. He was an extremely productive hitter, having a .345 batting average with a .970 on-base-plus-slugging percentage, two home runs and 25 runs batted in. In the Ban Johnson, he was named an all-star and played at Kauffman Stadium last Wednesday as a part of the National Division Team. He had a breakout season, hitting .40, having a gaudy 1.124 OPS with two home runs, 18 RBIs, 17 runs scored and six doubles. Having the support of his head coach at Rockhurst, Garry Burns, helped him have a successful sophomore season. “Coach Burns had faith in me at Rockhurst,” Garmon said. “That helped me gain confidence. I had the freshman jitters at first, but at the end of the year, I was rolling and everything felt like normal baseball. I am relaxed and confident.” At Rockhurst, Garmon had hit anywhere from third in the batting order to seventh. He has played at third base, second, first, and even the outfield once. He knew his strength was going to be his hitting and he’s proven to be a reliable bat for both Rockhurst and Building Champions. “The key to success was knowing that I didn’t have to do a lot. I just needed to hit the ball hard like normal,” Garmon said. “If you put too much pressure on yourself, it makes things a lot harder. At the end of the day, it’s just baseball.” Going into Rockhurst, Garmon didn’t know what position he was going to play. Coach Burns asked what position I am going to win and I said, whatever position my bat gets me. I have always been a good hitter and have always hit for average.” Added Building Champions manager Jim Hernandez: “He can hit for average and he has a little bit of pop. He’s hit a couple of home runs for us. He takes what they give him. He sprays the baseball all around the field. He grinds.” Garmon credits his father, Rob, for much of his success at hitting. “I worked with him a lot on my hitting,” Garmon said of his father. “He would take me to hit at the batting cages whenever he could. He threw me a lot of batting practice pitches. My friends looked at him as the hitting guru.” “He was my hitting coach off the field.” As a left-handed hitter, one of the bigger challenges of his career has been hitting left-handed pitching. In baseball, it is common for left-handed hitters to struggle against left-handed pitches, but Garmon said he feels like he’s handled it pretty well overall. In high school, lefties would maybe have three pitches. In college, the average pitchers have three pitches and sometimes four,” Garmon said. “Some of the pitchers throw fastballs in the 92-93 range and have four pitches (in college). As the spring went on, the more comfortable he got hitting left-handed pitching. “The hardest pitch to hit is a curveball that comes in level with your front shoulder. It looks like it’s about to hit you and that it’s not a strike, but then it falls right in the strike zone then you look kind of uncomfortable.” Currently, Garmon is on pace to have a successful baseball career in college. He said he is enjoying the game that he has been playing since he was 4 years old. He said his goal is to help Rockhurst make it back to the Great Lakes Valley Conference, a feat his team accomplished this spring. He also wants to move up in the lineup and earn all-conference and all-Midwest region honors. If his season in the Ban Johnson League this summer is any indication, he has a good chance at accomplishing those goals. “No one thought we were going to make the conference tournament this year,” Garmon said. “With the way the schedule is lined up next year, we have a good chance to do it again. “I also want to be an everyday player and be the best guy for this team.” Grain Valley graduate Avery Garmon is having a breakout season with the Building Champions team of the Ban Johnson baseball league over the summer. He was named an all-star of the league. Photo credit: Michael Smith
by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
Vacating my home after 56 years had made me ponder about why I’ve kept so many “things.” For many years it has been my goal to get rid of 5 “things” every day. With that goal in mind I had pretty much emptied the attic and the basement, except for my seven Christmas trees and boxes and boxes of decorations. I really thought moving would be a piece of cake. And then I remembered the collections; not just mine, but my ancestors! I still had some of Grandmother Rumbo’s cut-glass collection, Grandmother Napier’s Scottish tea accoutrements and kilt pins, and Aunt Opal’s tiny vases which Uncle Clyde kept filled with roses in the summertime. Then there was still my mother’s bone china tea cup collection, the playing cards from every airline she ever flew on and most of the states she and dad had visited, the drawer of handkerchiefs, and the embroidered pillowcases and hand crocheted doilies. It made me think of all the “things” that people have collected over the years. I don’t know about other parts of the country, but in Grain Valley, my mother’s friends all had collections! I’m pretty sure my mother wasn’t the only one to collect cups and saucers. I remember Anna Maude Caldwell, who lived on Main Street, 2 houses north of Yennie, had a china cabinet full of them in her dining room. I only remember her using them when it was her turn to host the ladies for pinochle. Aunt Opal also had cups and saucers. Following World War II American soldiers brought Hummel figurines home from Germany. They became very popular for many years. Although they are still considered collectables, their popularity in waning and their value has decreased among collectors. A popular 1950s collection was salt & pepper shakers. When I went with my aunt to visit Hazel Heidelberger for coffee, an almost daily midmorning event, I was fascinated by her collection. I think they occupied every available shelf in her kitchen. She had some pretty ones and she also had some unique ones; I especially remember the outhouse from “The Ozarks.” You had to open the door to get the shakers from inside! She had fruit, flowers, birds, bears, and hillbillies to name a few. Many were from different states. Whenever we traveled, we often came home with a souvenir salt & pepper set for Hazel! Another popular collection in the 1950s and 60s was souvenir spoons. I do believe they could be purchased in every National Park, State Capitol, and tourist trap in the United States. I don’t recall knowing anyone with a big collection, but I do remember seeing them at every souvenir shop we entered on a trip to Canada in the early 1960s. Of course, we can’t forget the popular mushrooms from the 1970s and the pet rock fad that lasted about six months, just prior to Christmas in 1975. In 1978, Samuel J. Butcher released the Original 21 Precious Moments figurines to worldwide acclaim and a new collecting and gift-giving tradition was born. The Precious Moments Collectors’ Club was born in 1981 and grew to over 400,000 members worldwide. In 1989, Mr. Butcher opened the Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, Missouri. And the rest, as they say, is history. Today, according to the internet the ten most popular collectables are: 1) antique furniture, 2) vinyl records, 3) comic books, 4) coins & currency, 5) classic cars, 6) trading cards, 7) dolls and toys, 8) stamps, 9) wine, and 10) fine art and jewelry. And I ask you, where are books on this list? By mid-September, I am planning to feature a display at the Historical Society of “Collectables Over the Years.” They will be items donated by Grain Valley citizens. Come visit any Wednesday from 10 AM to 3 PM and see some of the old Grain Valley Collectables! Missouri Independent: Eight Republicans face off in primary to be Missouri's top election official7/18/2024 Eight Republicans face off in primary to be Missouri’s top election officialby Jason Hancock, Missouri Independent Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s decision to forgo a third term in order to run for governor set off a mad dash of Republicans hoping to replace him. Early entrants included online personality Valentina Gomez, Greene County Clerk Shane Schoeller and state Rep. Adam Schwadron. They were eventually joined by longtime GOP strategist Jamie Corley, House Speaker Dean Plocher, state Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman and Judge Mike Carter. The winner of the crowded Aug. 6 GOP primary will take on one of three Democrats: Monique Williams, Barbara Phifer or Haley Jacobson.
Valentina Gomez
Gomez’s campaign for secretary of state exists nearly entirely online She’s raised virtually no money, and doesn’t appear to have much of a campaign apparatus. What she does have, though, is the ability to draw attention from national news organizations with social media posts that are equal parts homophobia and feats of strength. In an interview with “Wake Up Mid-Missouri,” Gomez said she plans to be the first successful candidate to win office “without holding a single fundraiser… we’re gonna win this with votes, not money.” Gomez describes herself on her campaign website as “a real estate investor, financier, strategist, former NCAA Division I swimmer, relentless achiever, and a fierce advocate for the principle values we hold dear as Americans battling for a better future.” Born in Colombia, but “made in the United States,” Gomez’s campaign says she’s “a testament of perseverance. Her success was not inherited, it has and continues to be earned through discipline and determination.”
Shane Schoeller
After serving three terms in the Missouri House, Schoeller won a competitive primary in 2012 to be the GOP nominee for secretary of state. He went on to lose in the general election, but two years later won his current job as Greene County clerk — the top elections official in one of Missouri’s largest counties. Schoeller says he’s the only candidate in the primary with the experience to be secretary of state. “I come ready on day one,” he said. “It’s really important that we have a secretary of state who understands the duties and responsibilities of the office in terms of elections, voter registration and record retention.” Voters continue to have concerns about the integrity of elections, Schoeller said, and one way to alleviate that would be to revamp Missouri’s central voter registration program, which he said is “dated in terms of its function and capacity.” “When you work with that system, day in and day out, through voter registration and the administration of elections,” he said, “we need to have a program that is more up to date, more user friendly and that can also be better at providing information for the public.”
Denny Hoskins
Hoskins served in the Army National Guard before becoming a certified public accountant. He has represented Warrensburg in the state House and Senate, leaving the legislature after this year because of term limits. His statehouse career is defined in recent years by his membership in the Senate Freedom Caucus, where Hoskins and his cohorts clashed with the chamber’s GOP leadership — creating years of gridlock in a battle over the party’s priorities. Those rumbles with Republican leaders are also a key part of Hoskins’ campaign message, which he insists is proof he’s a fighter who will stand up for the values of his party. “I’m a conservative fighter who believes our rights come from God, not state government,” Hoskins recently told supporters, noting he is the only candidate in the race for secretary of state that was endorsed by Missouri Right to Life. If elected, Hoskins says he’d push for the hand counting of ballots, eliminating absentee voting except for the military and disabled and making Election Day a holiday to make it easier for Missourians to vote. “We want to make sure our elections are free and fair and people trust the election process,” Hoskins told the Politically Speaking podcast. “That was the thing that got me interested in this race, that we could trust our elections and one person has one vote and only legal U.S. citizens vote.”
Adam Schwadron
Schwadron is the owner and operator of Clean Carpet Company in St. Charles County, and was elected to the state House in 2020. The secretary of state oversees elections and business registration, and Schwadron believes his experience as small business owner and four-year member of the House Elections Committee give him insight into how the job should be done. “Someone competent needs to be in this office,” he said. “And so I felt my professionalism, the way I’ve worked in the legislature with character and integrity, that’s what’s needed in elected office these days. And so that’s why I’m running.” His biggest concern related to the secretary of state’s office, Schwadron said, is the “attempt by Democrats at the federal level to take over our elections.” He believes his rivals in the GOP primary don’t take the threat seriously enough. He has sponsored legislation creating the “Missouri Elections Sovereignty Act,” which Schwadron says declares “our elections are ours, and any attempt by the federal government to come in here and tell us how to run our elections will be met with resistance.”
Jamie Corley
Corley is a veteran GOP political operative from St. Louis who has worked for three members of Congress, including as national press secretary for former U.S. Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee. Most recently, she spearheaded a campaign seeking to place a constitutional amendment on the statewide ballot adding exceptions to the state’s abortion ban for rape, incest, fatal fetal abnormalities and the health and safety of the mother. Her position on abortion, she notes, lines up with former President Donald Trump’s. She decided to run for secretary of state, she said, when she looked at the crop of candidates in the race and realized there was no one she could vote for. “We interact as citizens at the Secretary of State’s office more than we probably think,” she said. “Voting. Registering LLCs. Initiative petitions. It’s an important office.” Though she’s never held public office before, Corley says she’s not short of experience in government. She’s worked in the U.S. Senate and House, and at a conservative think tank, so “I’m not new to public policy by any means.” What she does lack is experience “in the absolute nonsense that has been the Missouri legislature for the past two years,” she said. “It’s a hard sell that the people who were responsible for that nonsense are all the sudden going to be competent leaders when they have to manage a statewide office.”
Dean Plocher
Plocher is an attorney who grew up in St. Louis and served as a municipal judge before winning a seat in the Missouri House. During his time in the Capitol, Plocher rose to become speaker of the Missouri House and championed legislation aimed at making it harder to amend the state constitution. He also sponsored the constitutional amendment repealing the nonpartisan redistricting plan. But for the last year Plocher has been engulfed in scandal over an alleged pay-to-play scheme involving a lucrative software contract and revelations he filed false expense reports for travel already paid for by his campaign. He currently faces a whistleblower lawsuit alleging he harassed and intimidated nonpartisan legislative staff. Plocher denies any wrongdoing, and has tried to use his trevails to his advantage by morphing his public persona from a St. Louis moderate to an embattled MAGA warrior in the mold of former President Donald Trump. In a recent interview just before the anniversary of D-Day, he compared his struggles to the troops who stormed the beaches of Normandy. “Democracy is not free,” Plocher said in an interview with one of his supporters. “You have to fight for it. And just as soldiers went out and gave their lives for our country, the politicians are out there, and they’re elected and answerable to the people. And right now, it’s unelected bureaucrats who are trying to run this country. It’s unelected bureaucrats who are trying to run the state of Missouri.”
Mary Elizabeth Coleman
Coleman is an attorney from Arnold currently serving her first term in the Missouri Senate after six years in the Missouri House. Asked about her time in the legislature, she is unequivocal about her proudest achievement. “There’s no more important thing that we have done,” she said, “than to end abortion in the state of Missouri.” Coleman was one of the architects of legislation that included a trigger allowing Missouri to ban abortion if the U.S. Supreme Court ever overturned Roe v. Wade. When that happened in 2022, Missouri became the first state to outlaw the procedure. “I’ll forever be proud of that,” she said. “I’m a conservative who delivers results. People want not just a fighter, but a fighter who can deliver. And my conservative record speaks for itself.” Like much of the GOP primary field, Coleman talks about election integrity and ensuring only U.S. citizens can cast a ballot. But she also emphasizes ways she believes she can improve how the secretary of state interacts with Missouri businesses. “We have got to do everything we can to make sure that every business owner’s experience is as positive and as minimal as possible,” she said. “We want the government to get out of people’s lives and when they have to be involved to be as effective and painless as possible.”
Mike Carter
Carter is an attorney and Wentzville municipal judge who ran in the GOP primary for lieutenant governor in 2020 and state Senate in 2022, falling short both times. He told the Politically Speaking podcast that he decided to run for secretary of state because it was the race with the “least amount of competition, the least amount of dollars dedicated to it and the largest opening for me to repeat what I did in the past and ascend to the position.” In his 2020 statewide race, Carter won nearly 27% of the vote in a four-way GOP primary. With a much more crowded field this year, he said replicating that success would likely mean victory. He’s different from others seeking the office, Carter contends, because he won’t be beholden to donors or special interests. “If I get in there,” he said, “I’ll have to answer just to the folks in the voting booth.” Missouri Independent is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Missouri Independent maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jason Hancock for questions: [email protected]. Follow Missouri Independent on Facebook and X. by Phil Hanson, President & CEO, Truman Heartland Community Foundation
Philanthropy comes in many forms. Some people give back by donating their time and talents, others donate financially to causes close to their hearts, and some choose to do a little of both. Then, there are those extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond to make an even greater impact on the communities where they live, work, and serve. Among them are the Truman Heartland Community Foundation’s 2024 Citizens of the Year. From a visionary restaurant manager to a retired professional pilot, a diligent building inspector to a passionate community activist, the 2024 Citizens of the Year embody the true spirit of local philanthropy. Each year, local Mayors are asked to select someone from their city who exemplifies philanthropic excellence to be recognized at the foundation’s annual Toast to Our Towns Gala in September. This is the list of this year’s honorees: Blue Springs – Bobby Hines Selected by Mayor Chris Lievsay Bobby Hines has been the General Manager of Sandy's Restaurant in Blue Springs for more than a decade, but his contributions to the community go well beyond delicious home-style meals. Although the biscuits at Sandy’s are amazing, Bobby is best known for his thoughtful philanthropy. Bobby is the Founder of the You Matter Movement, providing a wide range of resources for those struggling with mental health, addiction, and homelessness. The Movement also promotes empathy among the public, working to erase the stigma associated with these issues. Bobby is deeply involved in various community-focused activities, such as serving on the National Night Out Committee and the Blue Springs Fall Fun Fest Committee. He volunteers for Life Sports and Girls on Fire, provides thousands of summer lunches for local youth, and educates high school students on issues around mental health. Grain Valley – Eddie Saffell Selected by Mayor Mike Todd Eddie Saffell's passion for serving his community has been unwavering for more than 40 years. His journey of service began in 1980 as a volunteer firefighter, braving the front lines to ensure the safety of his community. His commitment to public service only grew from there as he transitioned into the role of Deputy Chief at Central Jackson County Fire Protection District for more than 15 years. Eddie's impact expanded beyond his professional roles as he fervently devoted himself to improving his community. Eddie has served on the Grain Valley Board of Education for 12 years, six of which he spent as President. He’s been an active member of the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce for six years, has served as a volunteer on the fair committee for seven years, and served as a valued member of THCF's Advisory Board for four years. Eddie’s selfless contributions have left an indelible mark, shaping the community for the better and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps. Independence – Alversia Pettigrew Selected by Mayor Rory Rowland The Neck Neighborhood in Independence has a rich history. Established in 1877, the vibrant community was demolished in the 1960s as part of Urban Renewal programs. However, the memory of its residents lives on in McCoy Park, thanks to the efforts of former residents like Alversia Pettigrew. Alversia has received many awards and accolades for her civic contributions over the years, including the prestigious DeVerne Lee Calloway Woman of the Year award for her contributions to equity and social justice, presented by the Women Legislators of Missouri. She's been an active member of the city's Rehabilitation and Housing Board, a supporter of organizations like Boys and Girls Club of Independence and Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity, and has also volunteered as a historical reenactor at the National Frontier Trails Museum, showcasing her deep commitment to preserving her community's vibrant heritage. Lake Tapawingo – Robert Seago Selected by Mayor Tom Rodenberg Bob Seago served on active duty as a Navy Pilot and then spent 16 years in the naval reserves while also working as a pilot for Continental Airlines. In 2008, when he moved into the Lake Tapawingo community, he was promptly elected to the Board of Alderman, a position he still holds today. Regardless of the weather or time of year, including weekends and holidays, Bob is always on hand to help with any problem, working alongside employees in the field. Bob walks the talk. On a recent holiday weekend, Bob gave the water and sewer employees some much-needed time off. When an issue arose, he was the one out in the heat, working to fix it. Bob is a selfless, hardworking servant of the citizens of Lake Tapawingo, often working quietly behind the scenes to ensure Lake life is as good as it can be for everyone. Lee’s Summit – Dave Eames Selected by Mayor Bill Baird Dave Eames has been a resident of the Lee’s Summit community for more than 30 years. He is always eager to volunteer; whether it's serving on a task force or board, he is an enthusiastic ambassador for his city. Dave, a professional artist and owner of Fossil Forge, has been an essential part of Lee’s Summit’s downtown revitalization efforts, bringing art, color, and light to the city. His passion for creating and refurbishing historical signs and sculptures has transformed the downtown district in a really meaningful way. Dan has served as a former board president of Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, is on the board of Lee’s Summit Creates, is a member of the Civic Roundtable, and is chairperson of the City’s new Cultural Commission. Dave has also previously served as an advisory board member for Lee’s Summit Education Foundation. Oak Grove – Ruth Ann Hafner Selected by Mayor Dana Webb Since March 2017, Ruth Ann Hafner has been an integral part of the community as a contributing writer for the city’s newspaper, Focus on Oak Grove. Her tenure began the day after the EF3 tornado wreaked havoc on the community. Ruth Ann's outstanding work on that story and many others has been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious General Excellence Award in 2018. Not only does she share her culinary expertise through the weekly Skillet Lickin’ Good recipe column, but Ruth Ann also crafts feature stories that shine a spotlight on community, family, civic, school, and governmental news, depicting the events and people that truly shape her community. Her dedication to our community extends beyond her role as a writer, as she has served as Secretary of the Oak Grove Chamber of Commerce Board for seven years and is a current member of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation Advisory Board. Ruth Ann Hafner's commitment, passion, and talent will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the whole community. Raytown – Pat Ertz Selected by Mike McDonough Pat Ertz, a dedicated resident of Raytown since 1989, has been an influential figure in his community. Following a successful career with Hy-Vee, he transitioned to managing the Jackson County Public Water Supply District #2. Pat has selflessly contributed numerous hours to public service, serving on the Board of Aldermen for eight years and even fulfilling the role of Mayor Pro-Tem. Holding volunteer appointments on various committees, such as the Raytown Finance Committee, Recycling Committee, Legislative Committee, and Park Board Governance Committee, among several others, further demonstrates his commitment to public welfare. In addition to his public service, Pat is passionate He is passionate about giving back as a volunteer, sharing his time and talents with the Raytown Emergency Assistance Program (REAP), Raytown Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, Raytown Rotary, and the Raytown Education Foundation. Sugar Creek - John C. “Chuck” Mikulich (posthumous) Selected by Mayor Mike Larson Chuck Mikulich's unwavering dedication to the community of Sugar Creek is truly inspiring. From his early days as a lifeguard at the Sugar Creek Pool to his 39-year career at TWA, Chuck was always deeply committed to his community. As a long-standing Sugar Creek Alderman, he tirelessly sought feedback from residents, demonstrating his genuine desire to serve. He was actively involved in various community affairs and activities, including his role in organizing the Slavic Festival and co-founding the public service organization "Go, Sugar Creek." Chuck was also committed to uplifting the lives of others, as evidenced by his efforts in building wheelchair ramps, conducting home repairs, and assisting in property sales for low-income individuals and families. His selfless contributions extend to his involvement in various boards and committees, including service on a THCF Advisory Board, exemplifying his unwavering dedication to making his community a better place for all. Chuck's strength of character, work ethic, problem-solving skills, and tremendous sense of humor have left an indelible mark on the whole community, ensuring that he will be remembered for generations to come. In a world where kindness and giving back often go unrecognized, it is heartwarming to see individuals celebrated for their philanthropic accomplishments. Truman Heartland Community Foundation's annual Toast to Our Towns Gala serves as a reminder of the impact that these extraordinary individuals have on their communities. Their dedication and generosity set an example for others to follow, inspiring hope and positive change for a brighter future. Through their selfless actions, they have shown that everyone can make a difference, no matter how big or small, and their contributions will continue to leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of those they have touched. These Citizens will be honored at an exclusive reception held at the home of Dr. Nancy Newhouse and Dr. Paul McGraw, which is sponsored by University Health Lakewood Medical Center. For those wanting to join in celebrating these extraordinary individuals table sponsorships and tickets are still available at THCF.org/gala or by calling 816-836-8189. You can also join us to celebrate Doug and Helen Hatridge, who will be celebrated as the Heartland Humanitarians of the Year, Corporate Citizen of the Year: CommunityAmerica Credit Union, the Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year Award will be Craig Bolger, and the Heartland Service Award will go to Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA). The Truman Heartland Community Foundation 2024 Toast to Our Towns Gala is proudly sponsored by Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co. Missouri Independent: KCPD funding, child care tax breaks: Missouri's August ballot issues explained7/18/2024
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KCPD funding, child care tax breaks: Missouri’s August ballot issues explainedby Allison Kite, Missouri Independent Kansas City officials have another chance next month to fend off an attempt by Missouri lawmakers to force the city to spend more of its revenue on policing. But despite opposition from Kansas City leaders and activists, there’s no formal campaign against the ballot initiative, which was previously passed by Missouri voters but later tossed by the Missouri Supreme Court over deceptive ballot language. Instead, opponents of the proposal will try to get the word out without “gigantic checks,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. “But I don’t pretend to think that will necessarily win the day,” Lucas said. At issue is a question that will appear on Missouri voters’ August 6 primary ballot as “Amendment 4.” It asks whether the Missouri Constitution should be amended to require Kansas City to spend at least one-quarter of its general revenue on policing, an increase of close to $39 million. Missouri voters previously approved the spending hike with 63% of the vote in 2022. But the measure was unpopular with Kansas Citians. In the Jackson County portion of Kansas City, more than 61% of voters rejected the amendment. It passed in Platte and Clay counties, which include suburban parts of Kansas City. Lucas sued the state’s auditor and secretary of state, saying a summary printed on voters’ ballots “materially misstated” the cost of the proposal. He prevailed, and the Missouri Supreme Court ordered the election results be tossed out and a new vote be held. The police funding amendment is one of two questions on Missouri voters’ August primary ballots. The other, passed last year by the Missouri General Assembly and appearing on the ballot as Amendment 1, would exempt child care facilities from paying property taxes in an attempt to “make child care more available” to “support the well-being of children, families, the workforce, and society as a whole.” “We obviously have a child care facility shortage in our state,” state Sen. Travis Fitzwater said during a hearing on the property tax amendment last year. “We need to provide opportunities for folks that get child care.” A “yes” vote on Amendment 1 supports amending the Missouri Constitution to allow child care facilities to be exempted from paying property tax. On Amendment 4, a “yes” vote supports amending the Missouri Constitution to increase the minimum amount Kansas City must spend on policing from 20% to 25%. A “no” vote would leave Kansas City’s spending obligations at 20%, though city officials could voluntarily spend more.
Police funding campaign
The police funding dispute stems from the Kansas City City Council’s attempt in 2021 to impose some control over the Kansas City Police Department’s Budget. For more than 80 years, the Kansas City Police Department has been controlled not by the City Council but by a board of commissioners appointed by Missouri’s governor. The only city in the state and one of few in the nation that doesn’t control its police, Kansas City simply provides the funds for the department. While the city was obligated between 1958 and 2022 to provide the funding requested by the board — up to 20% of the city’s general revenue — it has little control over how it is spent. The city has often exceeded its 20% obligation. But following racial justice protests that took place in Kansas City — and across the nation — in 2020, City Council members attempted to set aside $42 million in police funding above its obligatory spending for “community engagement, outreach, prevention, intervention and other public services.” The move was criticized by Republicans in the Missouri General Assembly who voted to increase Kansas City’s obligation to 25% of its revenue. “Kansas City’s short-sighted move to defund the KCPD, if attempted again, will have lasting and dangerous consequences for our metro area,” state Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer said in a committee hearing in 2022, when the amendment was approved by lawmakers. Luetkemeyer, who lives in the suburbs of Kansas City, carried the legislation in 2022 to increase the city’s police spending obligations. He did not return a request for comment. The 2022 legislation passed the Missouri General Assembly on a largely party-line vote with Republicans supporting the increased police spending and Democrats opposing it. Lucas said voting no was the “only common sense solution.” Residents of Kansas City, he said, should be the ones to determine the policy direction of the city by electing local representatives. He said one year the council may need to increase police salaries and the next it may need to spend money on other needs, like firefighting. “Who should tell you that, ‘No, you can’t actually take care of your firefighters; you can’t take care of the nurses in your public hospital because you have to live by whatever Jefferson City is doing just for pure political pandering?’” Lucas said. Lora McDonald, executive director of the Metro Organization for Racial and Economic Equity, or MORE2, called the attempt by state lawmakers to force Kansas City to spend 25% of its revenue on policing “a political ploy.” “Why do you care what our police department has or doesn’t have?” McDonald said. “It’s not your business. It’s not your money.” Lucas said there was “no organized campaign” to persuade voters to reject the amendment. Last month, the Missouri Supreme Court allowed the issue to go on the August ballot rather than the November one, giving supporters and opponents just over two months to mobilize voters. According to Missouri Ethics Commission records, no spending committees have been organized to advocate for or against Amendment 4, and no independent groups have spent money in the race.
Child care tax credit
Along with the Kansas City police question, Missouri voters in August will get to decide whether to amend the state constitution to offer a property tax exemption for child care facilities. The proposal, championed during the 2023 legislative session by Fitzwater, is one of several attempts by lawmakers in the last few years to ease the shortage of child care facilities in Missouri. This spring, Parson and lawmakers attempted to pass a package of child care tax credits, but the legislation stalled in the Senate because of ultra-conservative opposition to “welfare” or the attempt to “give away free child care.” An investigation by The Independent and MuckRock found nearly one in five Missouri children lives in a “child care desert,” where there are more than three children under the age of 6 for every licensed child care slot — or no licensed slots at all. “This is just one incentive to try to make that easier for the facilities,” Fitzwater said during a committee hearing on the property tax exemption last year. Fitzwater did not return a request for comment. Fitzwater’s proposal was supported by an array of child care and economic development organizations and anti-abortion groups. Samuel Lee, a lobbyist for Campaign Life Missouri, said during discussion on the bill last year that the anti-abortion group supported the “pro-life, pro-family, pro-workforce development” legislation. “The pro-life movement has generally not been involved in areas of childcare,” he said, “although for our maternity homes and pregnancy resource centers, the lack of available childcare, the lack of transportation, the lack of housing have always been the three major issues for their clients.” The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry also supported the measure last year. Its lobbyist Heidi Geisbuhler Sutherland said business owners told the chamber that the lack of child care makes it difficult to find workers. “It’s going to take an all-of-the-above approach to tackling the child care crisis,” she said, “but I think this measure is a great way to start.” SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST.
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Missouri Independent is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Missouri Independent maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jason Hancock for questions: [email protected]. Follow Missouri Independent on Facebook and X. Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 14,700 jobs in June 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 14,600 jobs and government employment increased by 100 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 95,700 jobs from June 2023 to June 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by seven-tenths of a percentage point, from 3 percent in June 2023 to 3.7 percent in June 2024.
EMPLOYMENT Missouri's nonfarm payroll employment was 3,072,300 in June 2024, up by 14,700 from the revised May 2024 figure. The May 2024 total was revised upward by 6,800 jobs from the preliminary estimate. Goods-producing industries decreased by 1,100 jobs over the month, with manufacturing decreasing by 1,000 jobs and mining, logging, and construction decreasing by 100 jobs. Private service-providing industries increased by 15,700 jobs between May 2024 and June 2024. Employment in private service-providing industries increased in private education and health services (7,400 jobs); leisure and hospitality (4,200 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (3,200 jobs); financial activities (800 jobs); and professional and business services (400 jobs). Employment decreased in other services (-200 jobs) and information (-100 jobs). Total government employment increased by 100 jobs over the month, with an increase in state government (700 jobs) and decreases in local (-500 jobs) and federal government (-100 jobs). Over the year, total payroll employment increased by 95,700 jobs from June 2023 to June 2024. The largest gain was in private education and health services (28,500 jobs); leisure and hospitality (21,400 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (11,300 jobs); mining, logging, and construction (10,300 jobs); financial activities (6,400 jobs); other services (4,200 jobs); manufacturing (2,300 jobs); and information (200 jobs). Employment decreased in professional and business services (-1,100 jobs). Government employment increased by 12,200 jobs over the year, with increases in local (5,500 jobs), state (5,400 jobs), and federal government (1,300 jobs). UNEMPLOYMENT Missouri's smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point in June 2024, increasing to 3.7 percent from the revised May 2024 rate of 3.5 percent. The June 2024 rate was seven-tenths of a percentage point higher than the June 2023 rate. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 114,479 in June 2024, up by 5,099 from the revised May total of 109,380. The number of employed Missourians also increased in the month, growing by 4,351. The state's not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate increased in June 2024 by three-tenths of a percentage point to 4.2 percent from the May 2024 not-seasonally-adjusted rate of 3.9 percent. A year ago, the not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 3.2 percent. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for June 2024 was 4.3 percent. Missouri's labor force participation rate was 63.6 percent in June 2024, one point higher than the national rate of 62.6 percent. Missouri's employment-population ratio was 61.2 percent in June 2024, 1.1 percentage points higher than the national rate of 60.1 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate was 3.7 percent in June 2024, four-tenths of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 4.1 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate has been at or below the national rate for more than nine years. |
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